Eswatini is capitalising on the EU-SADC Economic Partnership Agreement (EPA) to expand its trade footprint and unlock $114 million in untapped export potential, positioning itself as a competitive export hub amid shifting global tariffs.
The EU-SADC EPA, signed in 2016, grants duty-free, quota-free access to the European market for Eswatini and five other Southern African Development Community countries: Botswana, Lesotho, Mozambique, Namibia and South Africa.
The agreement aims to boost trade, enhance economic development and provide safeguards for sensitive industries, ensuring asymmetric benefits for SADC countries.
With new US tariff hikes indirectly affecting Eswatini due to its economic integration with South Africa, the country is diversifying its trade partnerships to mitigate risks.
Despite global trade uncertainties, Eswatini is leveraging its EPA access to drive sustainable growth and economic resilience.
“The market is there. We’re helping businesses seize these opportunities, move up the value chain and tackle unemployment head-on,” said Sibusiso Mnisi, Manager of External Trade at the Eswatini Investment Promotion Authority.
The International Trade Centre (ITC), in collaboration with the EU and the Eswatini government, is spearheading the ‘Promoting Growth through Competitive Alliances’ programme to enhance competitiveness, job creation and market access.
Eswatini’s exports to the EU reached $106.4 million in 2024, with significant room for growth.
The ITC initiative is addressing key constraints, including trade policy reforms, regulatory improvements and institutional capacity building.
At the enterprise level, the programme is fostering inclusive growth, supporting smallholder producers, artisans and entrepreneurs – especially women and youth – to meet EU standards and access new buyers.
Emerging Eswatini brands such as Tintsaba and Indzaba Yami are gaining international recognition, with local producers showcasing their craftsmanship at Paris Design Week.
Through tailored training, digital tools like the Export Potential Map and direct EU buyer connections, ITC has supported over 6,000 entrepreneurs, creating 2,200 new jobs across textiles, crafts, food processing and tourism.
JN/APA